The InfoQ Podcast

Ixchel Ruiz, a Senior Software Developer at Karakun, and Gunnar Morling, a Software Engineer at Decodable, discuss the latest trends in Java and share insights from the 2024 InfoQ Java Trends Report. They explore Java's six-month release cadence and innovations like Project Lilliput, focusing on memory management and performance. The conversation also touches on nullability issues, the impact of Python, and a challenge involving processing one billion rows. Their passion for community engagement shines through as they highlight Java's ongoing relevance in the tech landscape.

Denys Linkov, Head of Machine Learning at Voiceflow, discusses the vital role of micro metrics in evaluating large language models (LLMs). He highlights how granular assessment enhances user experience and business value. The conversation touches on the challenges of measuring relevant aspects like user engagement and emotional responses from AI. Linkov also delves into prompt engineering complexities and the importance of automated evaluation frameworks. Lastly, he shares insights on AI orchestration for better customer support, focusing on customizable workflows.

Ken Finnigan, a seasoned consultant and software engineer with over 25 years in the industry, dives into the crucial role of feedback in professional development. He discusses how the absence of timely feedback stunts growth and hiring practices, creating a 'feedback chasm.' The conversation touches on the importance of genuine networking, navigating job transfers, and the impact of feedback on team dynamics. Finnigan emphasizes that feedback should be viewed as a strategic investment, essential for personal and organizational success.

Delve into the fascinating world of AI with a spotlight on Geoffrey Hinton, the Godfather of AI, who revolutionized neural networks. Explore the historical skepticism of these technologies and their resurgence, particularly after the success of AlexNet. Discover John von Neumann's legacy in programming and his crucial contributions to computing architecture. The discussion also touches on the potential existential risks of AI, posing important questions about its future impact on society.

Namee Oberst, co-founder of AI Bloks and creator of the LLMWare framework, discusses the transformative power of Small Language Models (SLMs) in generative AI. She highlights their efficiency and accessibility for industries like finance and law without the need for heavy infrastructure. The conversation dives into the role of SLMs in enhancing AI on personal computers, enabling secure data management and real-time analytics. Namee also shares tips for incorporating AI tools in everyday tasks, making advanced technology usable for everyone.

Roland and Anthony dive into the fascinating world of sound simulation, revealing how virtual pianos and MIDI controllers help musicians practice without physical instruments. They explore the technical intricacies of robotics simulations, discussing tools like Gazebo and Unity. The conversation takes a philosophical twist, linking dreams to biological simulations, and even touches on the quirky mechanics of juggling robots. Get ready for a blend of music, technology, and a sprinkle of humor!

Delve into fascinating discussions about coordinate systems in AI and the physical world. Explore the evolution from traditional library research to AI-driven tools that enhance information retrieval. Learn about the complexities of high-dimensional spaces, cosine similarity, and efficient search algorithms. Discover the historical significance of mapping, including challenges with the Mercator projection and unique systems like the Netherlands' triangle coordinates. Hear about the tragic outcomes related to mapping inaccuracies in the UK post office scandal.

Dive into the intriguing cycles of AI's history, from early neural networks to the possibility of future AI winters. Discover the pivotal role of the A* algorithm in navigation and gaming, and its lasting impact on AI development. Hear reflections on the connections between classic sci-fi themes and today's technology, highlighting the foresight of authors like Heinlein. The conversation highlights both the challenges and breakthroughs that have shaped artificial intelligence, making it a compelling exploration of past, present, and future innovations.

In this engaging discussion, guest Bernd Ruecker, founder of Camunda and an expert in process orchestration, shares valuable insights on bridging the gap between technology and business. He emphasizes the misunderstood nature of process orchestration and the critical role effective modeling languages play. Bernd also highlights the importance of visual tools in training developers and simplifying complex workflows. He underscores how architects can drive alignment between tech solutions and business goals, advocating for collaboration and mentorship in distributed systems.

Dive into the quirky origins of algorithms, from their historical roots in Uzbekistan to the eccentric habits of mathematicians. Explore the brilliance of Al-Khwarizmi, the father of algebra, and his lasting impact on modern algorithms and AI. Discover the Fibonacci sequence's significance and the clever world of probabilistic counting through the HyperLogLog algorithm. The discussion combines humor with insights on estimating crowd sizes and the fascinating vision of eagles, blending personal anecdotes with innovative ideas.